President Bola Tinubu has called upon the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to continue its robust efforts in combating internet crimes and corruption. The President made this plea during a one-day public engagement on youth, religion, and the fight against corruption, as well as the launch of the Fraud Risk Assessment Project for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), organized by the EFCC.
Addressing the gathering in Abuja on Wednesday, President Tinubu expressed concern about the escalating threat of cybercrimes tarnishing the nation’s image. He emphasized the global nature of cybercrimes and underscored the imperative for the EFCC to confront this menace decisively. President Tinubu assured the EFCC of the government’s unwavering support in eradicating internet offenses, asserting, “Our country is not a nation of fraudsters, and we must collectively combat the global challenge of cybercrimes.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, highlighted the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption, asserting that corruption impedes growth and development. Shettima affirmed that the EFCC has been instructed to perform its duties without external influences, emphasizing that the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is resolute against corruption.
President Tinubu urged the EFCC to remain undeterred by criticisms and unfounded accusations, reiterating the government’s awareness of challenges faced by the Commission. He underscored the need for collective action to prevent Nigerian youth from succumbing to criminal activities.
Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the EFCC, acknowledged the progress made by the Commission in convictions and recoveries. However, he expressed deep concern about the persistent trend of corruption in the country, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. Olukoyede outlined the Commission’s renewed focus on youth involvement in cybercrimes and the susceptibility of government agencies to grand corruption.
The EFCC boss unveiled the Fraud Risk Assessment Project, designed to identify and address vulnerabilities within government agencies proactively. He emphasized that this initiative would save the nation significant resources spent on investigating grand corruption cases.
Notable figures present at the event, including the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and religious leaders such as Archbishop Daniel Okoh, Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar, and Ooni of Ife Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, pledged their support for the EFCC’s fight against corruption.
In a seminal presentation, John Momoh, Chairman and CEO of Channels Media Group, cautioned youths about the severe consequences of cybercrimes. He urged a collective reflection on the power of positive action and emphasized the role of youth and religion in upholding ethical standards and combating corruption.
The event concluded with the relaunch and unveiling of EFCC’s Interfaith Manuals and the Fraud Risk Assessment Project for MDAs, drawing participation from various political, religious, and traditional leaders, academia, civil society organizations, anti-corruption agencies, and youth groups.
